The 88-acre property has sat idle since the golf course folded last year. The Colonial Golf Course and country club operated in Harahan for 80 years.

Local businessman John Georges bought the property and is working with Stirling Properties on a development deal for the golf course. The developers have proposed a high-end shopping center on the part of the property that faces Jefferson Highway. The council approved the re-zoning and subdivision of the property at Thursday's meeting. Some say it was the biggest decision facing the council in Harahan for decades.

The push to develop the golf course has been controversial in Harahan. Residents who live on the course worry about how a strip mall would impact their property value. Other issues included increased traffic, noise and drainage concerns.

Residents sounded off about the planned development before the council vote. At one point, tensions escalated and prompted Mayor Vinny Mosca to call a brief recess.

Council member Eric Chatelain tried to put the brakes on Thursday's vote. He sent a letter to other council members and the development group asking to defer the vote. His motion to postpone was shot down.

After hours of public comment, the council approved the zoning change from residential to commercial. Neighbors fear this opens the door for further development projects, including townhomes and multifamily dwellings. Residents say the shopping center would be out of character for their community.

Mosca said the shopping center can bring in tax revenue that's badly needed. City leaders estimate the property will generate $1 million annually in new revenue.